Annie’s Mailbox: Don’t remind co-worker of encounter

Dear Annie: Several years ago, I went to a massage parlor and paid a woman for sex. This same woman recently got a job in the office where I work. There are only nine employees.

This is an unbelievable coincidence. We get along pretty well as co-workers and are respectful toward each other. But it’s awkward when we bump into each other in the narrow hallways or for the occasional elevator ride.

I have been carrying around a letter in my pocket for a long time. It is not a love letter. The woman is married, and I am not interested in her. The message in the letter is simply to reassure her that I have never gossiped about her to anyone, especially our co-workers. I want to put her mind at ease.

I’d give her this letter, but I’m afraid of her reaction. Should I just leave things alone? – Sleepless

Dear Sleepless: Yes. Please. In time, she will realize that you can be trusted not to ruin her work reputation, and she will relax. Her concerns in the meantime are not your business, and we doubt she would appreciate a reminder of your encounter. Behave around her as you would any other co-worker. Your awkwardness only adds to her discomfort.

Dear Annie: I totally agree with your advice to “Omaha, Neb.,” who wants to grow old with his wife, who is 100 pounds overweight.

Three years ago, I weighed 280 pounds, was Type II diabetic and had high blood pressure and high cholesterol. I walked into an Overeaters Anonymous meeting and found loving support and people I could relate to. A month later, I joined Weight Watchers because I liked the diet, and a year after that, I added a structured exercise program. Today, I am 90 pounds lighter, my numbers for diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol are all in the normal range, and I am so much happier. I still have some weight to lose, but I know that with the help of OA and the other changes I’ve made in my life, I will reach my goal. – Thankful in Florida